The National Department of Health (South Africa) offers Nursing Learnerships and bursary programmes for young South Africans who want to become professional nurses. These programmes are offered through provincial health departments and public nursing colleges.
The Department of Health Nursing Learnership 2026 allows students to study nursing while receiving financial support and practical hospital training. It is one of the best opportunities for people who want a career in healthcare and patient care.
What Is the Department of Health Nursing Learnership?
A nursing learnership is a structured training programme where students receive both theoretical education and practical hospital experience. Instead of paying full tuition fees, learners often receive financial assistance or a stipend while training.
Students usually train in government hospitals, clinics, and nursing colleges across South Africa.
Nursing Qualifications Offered
Most Department of Health programmes focus on these nursing qualifications:
1. Higher Certificate in Nursing (Auxiliary Nurse)
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Duration: 1 year
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Trains students to assist professional nurses in hospitals and clinics.
2. Diploma in Nursing
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Duration: 3 years
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Prepares students to become Professional Nurses.
These qualifications combine classroom learning and clinical training in healthcare facilities.
Learnership Requirements
To qualify for the Department of Health Nursing Learnership 2026, applicants usually need:
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South African citizen
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Age 18–35 years
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Grade 12 (Matric) certificate
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English and Life Sciences recommended
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No criminal record
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Medically fit to work in healthcare environments
Some nursing colleges may also require a minimum APS score or an entrance assessment.
Monthly Stipend
Learners who join Department of Health programmes may receive financial support or stipends during training.
Estimated stipend range:
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R5,000 – R7,000 per month depending on the province and programme.
The stipend helps cover transport, food, and study expenses.
Training Locations
Training is offered at public nursing colleges and hospitals in different provinces such as:
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Gauteng
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KwaZulu-Natal
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Western Cape
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Eastern Cape
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Limpopo
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Free State
Each province runs its own Department of Health nursing training programmes.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
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Updated CV
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Certified copy of South African ID
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Certified Matric certificate
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Proof of residence
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Academic transcripts (if applicable)
Make sure documents are certified within the last 3 months.
How to Apply for the Nursing Learnership 2026
Follow these steps:
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Visit your provincial Department of Health website.
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Look for Nursing Training or Learnership Opportunities.
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Download the application form or apply online.
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Submit the form with the required documents before the closing date.
Applications are normally processed through provincial health departments.
Important Warning
Nursing learnerships are completely free to apply for. If someone asks you to pay application or registration fees, it is likely a scam.
Always apply through official government websites.
Why Apply for the Department of Health Nursing Programme?
Benefits include:
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Government-funded nursing education
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Practical hospital training
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Monthly stipend or bursary support
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Opportunity to work in public hospitals and clinics
For many South Africans, this programme is a gateway to a stable and rewarding healthcare career.
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